Safe Diving Practices H
Hyperventilation
Hyperventilation, before a snorkel dive, should be avoided at all costs, as it has the effect of flushing out carbon dioxide from the respiratory system. Build up of carbon dioxide, rather than lack of oxygen, creates the desire to breathe and, by getting rid of carbon dioxide in this way, snorkellers are more likely to suffer a 'blackout' through hypoxia (shortage of oxygen).
Page last modified: 11th Dec 2006 - 14:32:07